Hansen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Olson Dam; Steven Berckerley Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hansen Dam, located in North Dakota, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1935 with an earth dam type and stone core, the dam stands at a height of 25 feet and a length of 450 feet, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Situated on the Sheyenne River, the dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies.
Despite its low hazard potential, Hansen Dam has undergone modifications in 1952 for structural improvements. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 38 feet, and the dam is equipped with no outlet gates. While it has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) date, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are not specified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hansen Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and regulation. With a focus on fire protection and wildlife support, the dam's historical significance and environmental impact provide valuable insights into sustainable water infrastructure development. As part of the larger network of dams in North Dakota, Hansen Dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human needs with ecological conservation in water resource management.
Years Modified |
1952 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
SHEYENNE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
3.58 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sheyenne River Below Baldhill Dam
|
162cfs |
Maple River Nr Enderlin
|
25cfs |
Baldhill Creek Nr Dazey
|
7cfs |
James River At Jamestown
|
205cfs |
Sheyenne River At Lisbon
|
222cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Hansen Dam